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Pakistan steps up diplomatic efforts to bring Iran to second round of talks

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Pakistan steps up

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has intensified high-level diplomatic engagement with Iran to persuade Tehran to participate in the second round of negotiations aimed at sustaining a fragile ceasefire and paving the way for lasting peace, informed sources said.

According to officials familiar with the development, Pakistan’s top leadership is in active contact with Iranian authorities. Key figures involved include Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

Sources said Islamabad’s primary objective is to prevent any potential escalation while ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire. Pakistan is also working to bring both sides to the table for direct negotiations to achieve long-term regional stability.

A well-placed source stated that Pakistan is making every possible effort and is currently awaiting a formal response from Iran regarding its participation.

Officials indicated that once confirmation is received, Pakistan is prepared to host the second round of talks in Islamabad. “We are ready to facilitate and host the talks,” the source added.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar clarified that Pakistan is still awaiting official confirmation from the Iranian side regarding the proposed peace talks.

He emphasized that Pakistan continues to play a mediatory role and remains engaged with Iranian leadership through ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Tarar also noted that the current ceasefire is set to expire early on April 22 (Pakistan time), underlining the urgency for Tehran to make a timely decision on joining the next phase of negotiations.

Toyota announces $300 Million investment plan in auto sector

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Toyota announces

KARACHI: In a major development for Pakistan’s auto industry, Toyota has announced plans to invest $300 million in the country over the next five years. The announcement was made by Ali Asghar Jamali, Chief Executive Officer of Indus Motor Company.

According to Jamali, Toyota has already invested $736 million in Pakistan over the past 35 years, reflecting its long-term commitment to the local market.

However, he highlighted that heavy taxation remains a key challenge, noting that large vehicles in Pakistan are subject to taxes of up to 60 percent.

He emphasized that automobile manufacturers operate globally and place immense importance on maintaining their brand reputation, adding that no company compromises on quality standards.

Comparing market dynamics, Jamali pointed out that around 90 million vehicles were sold worldwide last year, whereas Pakistan’s total sales stood at just 200,000 units, indicating significant growth potential in the local market.

He urged the government to introduce a long-term auto policy spanning at least 10 years, stating that consistent and stable policies would boost manufacturing and attract greater foreign investment into the sector.

Jamali further revealed that approximately 60 percent of vehicle parts used by Indus Motor Company are now locally manufactured, contributing to industrial development and localization.

Discussing future trends, he said electric vehicles (EVs) represent the global future of mobility, but Pakistan currently lacks the necessary EV charging infrastructure to support large-scale adoption.

On performance, he noted that the company achieved a 1 percent increase in market share last year, while a decline in interest rates has led to a rise in auto financing over the past three years.

He added that the company will align its future strategy in accordance with government policy directions. Furthermore, Indus Motor Company has paid $6.3 billion in taxes to date and has helped save $6.5 billion in foreign exchange through local production.

President Trump hints at second round of Iran talks on Friday

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President Trump

WASHINGTON: The second round of talks between the United States and Iran is expected to take place on Friday, with U.S. President Donald Trump expressing optimism and forecasting potential “good news” from the negotiations.

In remarks to American media, Donald Trump said the United States is simultaneously advancing diplomatic efforts while keeping its military on high alert to respond to any possible developments.

He stated that the next phase of negotiations is expected to bring significant progress, which could serve as an important step toward easing tensions in the region.

Trump also suggested that recent developments include a temporary pause in potential military action against Iran, following requests and diplomatic engagement from Pakistan’s leadership.

According to his statement, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly urged restraint and advised continued diplomatic engagement until mutually agreed proposals from Iran are presented.

He added that the ceasefire arrangement would remain in place until the completion of the negotiation process and clear progress is seen on Iranian proposals.

Analysts believe Pakistan’s diplomatic role has been significant in easing tensions, while the coming days may prove crucial for regional stability and peace efforts.

Young batter Sameer Minhas eyes consistent performances

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Young batter Samir

KARACHI: Islamabad United young batter Sameer Minhasr has said his primary goal is to make the most of every opportunity and play impactful innings for his team in the Pakistan Super League.

Speaking in an interview, the emerging cricketer said that the PSL is widely regarded as a strong platform for young players to showcase their talent and build recognition at the national level.

Sameer Minhas , who has previously represented Pakistan at the Under-19 level, said he is determined to fully utilise his chances in the league and continue improving his game.

He expressed satisfaction over his team’s overall performance, noting that Islamabad United is playing good cricket with several players delivering strong performances.

Highlighting his personal approach, he said his focus remains simple: to perform whenever given the opportunity and contribute with meaningful innings for the team.

The youngster also described playing alongside senior cricketers as a valuable learning experience, saying the dressing room environment helps improve game awareness and skills through continuous interaction and guidance.

Reflecting on his Under-19 days, Sameer said team success was always his priority, recalling their Asia Cup victory as a memorable achievement.

He added that his long-term ambition is to represent Pakistan at the international level and help the national team achieve success, while continuing to work hard and maintain consistent performances in the PSL.

Iran confirms participation in FIFA World Cup 2026

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Iran confirms

TEHRAN: Iran has officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite earlier political tensions surrounding the tournament.

According to the Iranian Ministry of Sports, the national football team is fully prepared to take part in the global event, which is scheduled to begin on June 11.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani also confirmed that all necessary arrangements for participation have been completed.

The announcement comes after comments from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had previously stated that Iran would be part of the tournament.

Iran has already qualified for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The team’s matches are currently scheduled to be played in the United States.

Under the group stage fixtures, Iran is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 27.

Earlier reports suggested that the Iranian Football Federation had considered requesting FIFA to relocate its matches to Mexico due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel. However, no final decision on venue changes has been confirmed.

The participation had also drawn political commentary, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier suggested Iran’s participation in the U.S. might be inappropriate under current conditions. Iran, however, maintained that no country could exclude its national team from the tournament.

Despite tensions, both sporting authorities and political figures have now indicated that Iran will take part in the global football event as planned.

Usman Khan breaks record for most centuries in PSL history

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Usman Khan

KARACHI: Hyderabad Kingsmen batter Usman Khan has made history in the Pakistan Super League by becoming the player with the most centuries in the tournament’s history.

The milestone came during a PSL 11 match against Multan Sultans, where Usman Khan played a heroic innings of 101 runs off just 47 balls while chasing a target of 214 runs.

This century marks his fourth in the PSL, taking him to the top of the all-time list for most hundreds in the league.

Usman Khan has featured in 33 PSL matches, having previously scored one century in 2023 and two in 2024 before achieving this latest feat.

Powered by his match-winning knock, Hyderabad Kingsmen successfully chased down the 214-run target with three balls to spare, securing a memorable victory.

NEPRA license made mandatory for solar system users across Pakistan

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NEPRA license

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Energy has made it mandatory for all solar system users to obtain a license from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), introducing new regulatory requirements for electricity generation.

According to NEPRA sources, consumers installing solar systems will now be required to secure a license based on their power generation capacity.

Previously, distribution companies were authorized to issue licenses for systems up to 25 kilowatts, often at no cost. However, under the new amendments introduced by the Power Division, obtaining a NEPRA license has become compulsory for all such users.

Sources further revealed that consumers will now have to pay a fee calculated at Rs1,000 per kilowatt, along with submitting a pay order in favor of NEPRA. Earlier, licenses for systems up to 25 kW were issued free of charge.

Under the revised rules, eligible consumers will be able to obtain connections under the net billing system, while those using hybrid solar technology will be exempt from the licensing requirement.

The move is aimed at streamlining solar energy regulation and ensuring proper oversight of distributed power generation in the country.

Survey: 36% Europeans view US as greater threat than China

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Survey

BRUSSELS: A new survey has revealed that 36% of Europeans consider the United States a bigger threat than China, amid criticism of anti-Europe statements by US President Donald Trump.

The poll, conducted across six European countries including Germany, found that 36% of respondents identified the US as a threat, compared to 29% who viewed China as a greater concern.

According to the “EuroPulse” survey, the perception was particularly strong in Spain, where 51% of respondents considered the US a threat. Similar views were recorded in Italy (46%), Belgium (42%), and Germany (30%).

In France, 37% of participants saw the US as a threat, while a higher 43% viewed China in that light.

Meanwhile, in Poland, only 13% of respondents identified the US as a threat, compared to 37% who pointed to China.

The findings highlight shifting geopolitical perceptions in Europe amid evolving global political dynamics.

Trump claims Iran halted execution of 8 women after his appeal

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Trump claims

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has halted the execution of eight women following his request, according to a statement shared on his social media platform.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had been informed that the eight women, who were reportedly scheduled to be executed, would no longer face the death penalty.

He added that four of the women would be released immediately, while the remaining four would be freed after serving one month in detention.

Trump expressed appreciation toward the Iranian leadership for, as he stated, respecting his appeal and deciding to stop the executions.

It is noteworthy that a day earlier, Trump had shared images of the women on social media and called for their release, urging Iranian authorities to ensure their safety and describing their act as a positive step toward upcoming negotiations.

However, according to U.S. media reports, the detention of these eight women in Iran could not be independently verified. Meanwhile, Iran’s judiciary has denied reports that eight women were sentenced to death.

A statement from Iranian judicial authorities, cited by international media, said the U.S. president had once again been misled by “fake news,” adding that some of the women mentioned had already been released, while others if convicted would face imprisonment rather than capital punishment.

US singer D4vd charged in murder case of teenage girl

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US singer D4vd

LOS ANGELES: American singer David Anthony D4vd, 21, has been formally indicted in a shocking criminal case involving the alleged murder of a 15-year-old girl, along with multiple other serious charges.

According to international media reports, the artist whose real name is David Anthony Burke has been charged in the killing of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. He has, however, pleaded not guilty in court and denied all allegations.

Investigators said the victim’s remains were discovered last September inside a vehicle registered under the singer’s name. Authorities described the condition of the body as severely mutilated, adding to the gravity of the case.

The indictment includes not only murder charges but also allegations of sexual assault involving a minor and desecration of a body. Prosecutors have stated that if convicted, the accused could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty, depending on legal proceedings.

Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman said a final decision on seeking the death penalty will be made later.

Police officials further claimed that the victim had been reported missing after visiting the singer’s residence in April 2025, while investigations suggest she may have been subjected to abuse since 2023.

Meanwhile, the singer’s legal team has strongly denied the charges, insisting that he will be proven innocent in court.

D4vd rose to fame in 2022 through viral music releases, but has since canceled all upcoming tours following the emergence of the case.

The high-profile case has sparked widespread discussion across social media and the global music industry, with audiences awaiting further legal developments.